In thanks for the gift of free 7th grade memberships to the Y, 9th grader Heather Tanner and her friends in the Lenape (Middle School) Soul club are organizing a dodge ball tournament and giving the proceeds to Central Bucks Family YMCA’s 2011 Community Support Campaign, a campaign that funds programs like the 7th Grade Initiative free memberships.

This is exactly the kind of behavior in our youth that the 7th Grade Initiative is fostering.

As the needs in the community have changed – with increasing social pressures for youth, both parents having to work, and a growing elderly population – the Y is responding by creating new ways to provide help to the community where it needs it most.  This year, more than ever, the Y is focused on creating programs most needed by the community.

The goal of the Community Support Campaign is to raise awareness among Y members and the community about these programs and to raise vitally needed funds. These community programs benefit people of all ages and stages of life who want to live healthier, more balanced and connected lives. No one is turned away from the Y, regardless of their inability to pay.

Seventh-Grade Initiative

The Y has always been committed to excellence and accessibility to all, but this year they’ve taken this commitment to a whole new level: this September, the Y opened to more than 1,200 area 7th grade students by offering them free memberships. The goal of the 7th Grade Initiative is to help kids pass through what is widely considered the most critical juncture in the development of attitudes and behaviors with enhanced self-esteem and increased understanding of the importance of exercise and healthy nutrition. The program has been widely publicized in local papers and at all five Central Bucks School District Middle Schools, as well as private and parochial schools. To date, over 260 youth have joined the program, which provides a membership and specialized classes like youth in government, dodgeball, theater club, running clubs, skate park and access to the Teen Center. Thursday evening family nights are also included so that youth can share their healthy habits with parents and siblings.

According to results from the 2007-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 17% of children and adolescents ages 2-19 years are obese. These grim statistics are frightening evidence of the need for education and awareness programs like the Y’s 7th Grade Initiative.

Cancer Wellness

Another upcoming and much needed program focuses on cancer wellness. Last spring, the Y began talking with local hospitals, doctors and medical experts about working together to bring a cancer wellness program to our community. In 2012, the Y will partner with Fox Chase Cancer Center to provide a wellness program focusing on cancer patients and their families. Moreover, the Y is working hand-in-hand with the broader medical community to develop this program.

Zane Moore, President/CEO of Central Bucks Family YMCA, meets on an ongoing basis with professional and community residents who validate that the Y is on the right path: addressing the needs of adolescents and cancer patients is a need and priority in our community. Mr. Moore states, “We don’t do anything alone. We serve our community in ways they want and need us most.”

Financial Assistance

In 2010, more than 1,000 individuals and over 600 families received assistance to participate in Y programs thanks to the Y’s Financial Assistance program.  Although Central Bucks is a community of perceived wealth, 72% of these memberships have annual incomes below $20,000.  Central Bucks Family YMCA’s Financial Assistance program ensures opportunities for everyone in the community to learn, grow and thrive.

The generosity of Y donors also made it possible for over 280 local youth to attend summer camp programs at the Y. These campers uncovered a new talent, increased self-esteem and realized potential in sports, arts, and day camp programs.  Parents of these youth were able to work and keep their earnings in the family budget, where it is often so desperately needed.

Bess Godin, Director of Development at the Y, reports that donors have been generous this year despite the ongoing economic uncertainty; “I am continually moved by the generosity of our community. Already, we have seen our Board and our Trustees in cooperation with our Staff increase their giving this year by contributing nearly $75,000 towards our goal of $308,000.” When asked how the members and the community can get involved, Ms. Godin responded, “Thanks to the creativity of some of our top volunteers and staff, it’s easy to give online or when you register for classes at the Welcome Center.” The latter refers to the Y’s High $5 the Y promotion, where those registering for Y programs can opt to give $5 to the Community Support Campaign. In many cases, individuals choose to give more.

Central Bucks Family YMCA’s 2011 Community Support Campaign, under the leadership of Volunteer Chairperson Bill Lieser,continues through November 17 and is appealing to the community for support and funding. If you have questions about any of the programs that benefit the community or ways to give, please contact Bess Godin at 215-348-8131, x1124.

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